iOptron CEM70AW Center-Balanced Equatorial Mount
Following the success of the acclaimed iOptron CEM60, we’re excited to introduce the next generation of center-balanced equatorial mounts — the CEM70 and CEM70AW.
The CEM70AW sets a new standard in the 70 lb payload class, offering advanced features such as USB 3.0 connectivity and built-in Wi-Fi.
Precision. Balance. Performance.
Retaining the inherent advantages of the center-balance design, these medium-payload mounts deliver the efficiency, accuracy, and portability that astronomers demand.
With precise GoTo pointing and tracking accuracy better than ±5 arcseconds, the CEM70 is a solid performer for both visual observers and astrophotographers.
Innovative features such as the integrated iPolar™ electronic polar scope, large easy-lock gear levers (usable with gloves), and an advanced cable-management system demonstrate iOptron’s commitment to real-world usability.
The CEM70AW includes both the iPolar™ electronic polar scope and a hard case for convenient transport and protection.
Key Features
- New center-balanced design (CEM) for maximum payload and natural stability
- Ideal for both visual observing and astrophotography
- 70 lb (31.8 kg) payload capacity with a mount weight of only 30 lb (13.6 kg)
- Reliable, easy-to-use gear clutches
- Precision altitude and azimuth adjustments
- High-precision stepper motors (0.07 arcsec resolution) for accurate GoTo and tracking
- Integrated iPolar™ electronic polar scope
- Go2Nova® 8410 controller with Advanced GoToNova® technology and built-in heater
- High-precision tracking with periodic error < ±5 arcsec
- Permanent Periodic Error Correction (PPEC)
- Built-in 32-channel GPS
- Integrated Wi-Fi for remote operation
- USB 3.0 connection for modern data-transfer speeds
- ST-4 autoguiding port
- Advanced cable-management system with multiple output options
- Spring-loaded 8″ dual Vixen/Losmandy saddle
- Includes iOptron-subsidized TheSky Imaging Edition software
Technical Specifications
| Mount type | Center-balanced Equatorial Mount (CEM) |
| Payload capacity* | 31.8 kg (70 lb) – excluding counterweight |
| Mount weight | 13.6 kg (30 lb) |
| Payload : Mount weight ratio | 2.33 |
| Construction | All metal |
| Latitude adjustment | 0° – 65° |
| Azimuth adjustment | ± 4° |
| Periodic error (encoder) | < ± 5 arcsec |
| Worm period | 348 sec |
| Periodic Error Correction | PPEC |
| RA worm wheel | Ø 151 mm, 248 teeth |
| DEC worm wheel | Ø 151 mm, 248 teeth |
| Worm diameter | Ø 21.2 mm |
| RA axle | Ø 55 mm (steel) |
| DEC axle | Ø 55 mm (steel) |
| RA bearings | Ø 80 mm |
| DEC bearings | Ø 80 mm |
| Counterweight shaft | Ø 28 × 415 mm (SS, 1.9 kg) |
| Counterweight | 9.5 kg (20 lb) × 1 |
| Mount base diameter | Ø 152 mm |
| Motor drive | Precision stepper motor with 128 micro-steps |
| Resolution | 0.07 arcseconds |
| Max slew speed | 3.75°/sec (900×) |
| Hand controller | Go2Nova® 8410 (8-line × 21-character LCD) |
| Power requirement* | DC 12 V 5 A (5.5 mm / 2.5 mm plug) |
| Power consumption | 0.6 A (tracking) / 0.8 A (GoTo) |
| Polar scope | Internal iPolar™ electronic polar scope |
| Meridian treatment | Stop (0–10° pass) or auto flip |
| Zero position | Automatic zero search |
| Park positions | Horizontal, vertical, current, alt/az input |
| Level indicator | Yes |
| Dovetail saddle | 8″ Losmandy D & Vixen |
| GPS | Yes (32-channel built-in) |
| Guiding port | ST-4 |
| Communication ports | USB 3.0, Wi-Fi |
| Cable management | 1 × DC 12 V (3 A), 3 × USB 3.0, 1 × DC in / 2 × DC out, iPort |
| USB input support | Mount, iGuider, iPolar, and more |
| Operating temperature | −10 °C to +40 °C |
